The Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) officially opened the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Demonstration Center in the Changwon Industrial Complex, South Gyeongsang Province, on March 25, 2025. This landmark initiative is designed to reduce South Korea’s reliance on CNC imports from Japan and Germany, which currently supply more than 90% of the nation’s needs.
Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, South Gyeongsang Province, and Changwon City, the AI CNC facility represents a 30 billion won investment. Its primary goal is to enhance CNC technology by verifying machine tool performance and fostering collaboration among industry players. By 2030, the center plans to localize over 50% of CNCs in South Gyeongsang Province, contributing to an estimated annual import substitution effect of 300 billion won.
CNC technology, which automates machining tool control through computer systems, is crucial in modern manufacturing, acting as the “brain” of machine tools that produce other machinery. Despite South Korea’s global prominence in machine tool production, its reliance on imported CNC components has hindered the creation of higher-value products. Kim Nam-kyun, president of KERI, emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, stating that KERI aims to boost domestic CNC production to meet local demand while enhancing Korea’s competitiveness in global markets.
A key focus of the AI CNC center is integrating AI technology into machine tools to address challenges related to aging equipment and inconsistent process data. KERI plans to gather large-scale, reliable data to drive innovation and the smartification of machine tools. By 2030, KERI aims to establish over 500 AI-powered factories in South Gyeongsang Province, generating an economic impact exceeding 1 trillion won annually. This initiative marks a major step towards self-sufficiency in CNC technology and further strengthens Korea’s manufacturing capabilities.